Morris Leader

In recognition of America Recycles Day, the Morris County Board of County Commissioners and the Morris County Municipal Utilities Authority (MCMUA) have released two videos promoting the county’s Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) Program. This initiative offers residents, small businesses, and municipalities a way to dispose of toxic, flammable, and corrosive materials safely.

The MCMUA organizes four annual disposal events across the county and runs a permanent HHW facility at the Mount Olive Transfer Station in Flanders, New Jersey. The facility accepts hazardous materials by appointment, including universal waste like fluorescent bulbs, rechargeable batteries, and electronic waste such as televisions and computers.

Commissioner Tayfun Selen recently visited the Mount Olive facility to emphasize this essential service available year-round for free to Morris County residents. "Morris County is committed to protecting the environment and the health of our residents," said Commissioner Selen. "Thanks to this program and the active participation of our community, we prevent more than 150 tons of hazardous waste from entering landfills each year."

Improper disposal of hazardous waste poses risks to children, pets, homeowners, and municipal infrastructure. Pouring these materials down drains can damage septic systems, pollute groundwater, and contaminate surface water through municipal treatment systems. Additionally, incinerating hazardous waste increases ash toxicity and air emissions.

"Our goal is to provide a safe and convenient way for residents and businesses to properly dispose of hazardous materials," stated Steve Adams, MCMUA Hazardous and Vegetative Waste Manager. "By managing hazardous waste responsibly, we protect the health of our communities and the environment."

The Mount Olive facility operates by appointment on Tuesday and Friday mornings from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m., as well as most Saturday mornings during those hours. The HHW program is open to Morris County residents; businesses qualifying as very small quantity generators or out-of-county residents may apply for pre-approval at cost.

For more information on scheduling or accepted items, visit mcmua.com/sw_hhw_events.asp.